REALISTIC solutions are needed to solve traffic problems that are leaving York roads gridlocked, a councillor has claimed.

Labour transport spokeswoman Tracey Simpson-Laing believes bringing in more low emission cars and dualling sections of the ring road would not produce short-term benefits.

Speaking after a shadow executive meeting yesterday which saw a new transport planning report discussed, she said air quality concerns needed addressing quickly.

Coun Simpson-Laing said: "There is real concern that things may not be moving forward fast enough to get the citizens of York better air quality.

"Some proposals being put forward by the Liberal Democrats are long-term and won't make much of a difference over the next few years."

She also raised concerns that the still to be completed Park&Ride schemes at Monk's Cross and the A59 were included in modelling documents for future policy.

City of York Council is due to hand its transport blueprint to the Government by 2005, and delays to these schemes could have "massive implications", she added.

Coun Simpson-Laing said consultation with residents was the only way forward.

She added: " We must make sure that officers speak to all members of the public and create robust alternatives."

The Labour councillor also called on officers to speak to other historic cities, both in UK and Europe, about how they tackle congestion.

Her comments come after council leader Steve Galloway told the Evening Press that dualling sections of the A1237 northern ring road, creating a new ring road relief route, and use of low-emission cars could be an answer to tailback misery.

Coun Simpson-Laing said dualling could be held up by a lengthy public inquiry.

Updated: 10:55 Thursday, October 16, 2003